Czechia and Oshawa Generals defenseman Matyas Michalek will miss the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup, the Czech Ice Hockey Federation has announced.

Michalek, who was expected to be a key piece on the Czech roster at the tournament, will not be available due to injury, replaced by fellow defenseman Jan Novak.

The 16-year-old left-shot defenseman was selected by the Oshawa Generals with the first overall pick in the 2026 CHL Import Draft, eligible for the 2028 NHL Draft.

Neither Michalek nor the Generals have confirmed if Michalek will suit up for Oshawa next season. The severity of Michalek's injury is unknown, but he missed time last season due to injury.

Michalek appeared in 18 games in the Czech U20 last season with Sparta Praha with eight points. Michalek had 13 goals and 39 points in 37 games for Sparta in the U17 division.

Having appeared internationally at the U17 and U18 level, Michalek has not played at the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup in the past, having expected to be a key contributor for the roster, and potentially their most impactful player, despite his status as an underager.

Czechia named their 23-man roster for the Hlinka earlier today on Monday, including in it's roster Brantford Bulldogs first round import selection Adam Nemec.

Michal Hartl, a projected first round NHL Draft Pick in 2027, will be on the top options for the Czechs. Hartl is an import selection of the QMJHL Rimouski Oceanic, although he is expected to remain in Czechia for this upcoming season.